Comparison · Minerals
Chrysocolla vs Fluorite
Chrysocolla and Fluorite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Fluorite is harder (Mohs 4) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Fluorite will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Chrysocolla and Fluorite
- Fluorite is harder (Mohs 4) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Fluorite will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
- Streak color differs: Chrysocolla leaves a white to pale blue streak on unglazed porcelain, Fluorite leaves white.
- Fluorite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 3.2 versus 2.2 for Chrysocolla).
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Chrysocolla is translucent, Fluorite is transparent.
- They overlap in green and blue, but Fluorite also comes in purple, yellow, clear, and pink.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Chrysocolla is orthorhombic, Fluorite is cubic.
Chrysocolla vs Fluorite properties
| Property | Chrysocolla | Fluorite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 2.5 | 4 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White to pale blue | White |
| Transparency | translucent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 2.2 | 3.2 |
| Crystal system | orthorhombic | cubic |
| Common colors | Blue-Green, Cyan, Turquoise Blue | Purple, Green, Blue, Yellow, Colorless, Pink |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $5–$200+ |
Which is more valuable?
Typical specimens of Chrysocolla and Fluorite trade in a similar range, around $25.
About Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla is a vibrant blue-green copper mineral often confused with turquoise. When mixed with quartz, it's hard enough for jewelry.
About Fluorite
Fluorite is a colorful mineral that often exhibits multiple colors in a single specimen. It's the defining mineral for 4 on the Mohs hardness scale.
Chrysocolla vs Fluorite FAQ
Is Chrysocolla the same as Fluorite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Fluorite is harder (Mohs 4) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Fluorite will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
How can you tell Chrysocolla from Fluorite?
Fluorite is harder (Mohs 4) than Chrysocolla (Mohs 2.5), so Fluorite will scratch Chrysocolla and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Streak color differs: Chrysocolla leaves a white to pale blue streak on unglazed porcelain, Fluorite leaves white. Fluorite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 3.2 versus 2.2 for Chrysocolla).
Which is harder, Chrysocolla or Fluorite?
Fluorite is harder: Mohs 4 against Mohs 2.5 for Chrysocolla.
Which is more valuable, Chrysocolla or Fluorite?
Typical specimens of Chrysocolla and Fluorite trade in a similar range, around $25.
